The Nandi gubernatorial election has taken a dramatic turn with the entry of independent candidates.
Incumbent Governor Stephen Sang is facing a stiff challenge from his predecessor Dr Cleophas Lagat, who has rallied six independent candidates behind him.
The independent candidates, who were initially vying for the seat, have dropped their bids to support Dr Lagat, citing the need for a change in leadership.
Dr Lagat has promised to revamp the agriculture sector, develop infrastructure to ease access of agricultural produce to the market, and tackle historical land injustices.
He has also pledged to complete pending projects that have stalled since he was voted out.
Dr Lagat's running mate is Lagat Elijah Kiptarbei, who will head the Finance docket if they win.
The county, with 402,856 registered voters in six constituencies, has a history of voting as a bloc, so the entry of independent candidates will introduce a twist to the voting pattern.
Land and Employment Issues ¶
Land and employment issues are expected to be key factors in the election, with Dr Lagat promising to address the historical land injustices and provide employment opportunities to the youth.
Dr Lagat has also pledged to settle pending bills and ensure that the public gets value for their money.
He has also promised to complete the pending projects that have stalled since he was voted out.
Dr Lagat's past achievements, including the provision of piped water and the revamping of cattle dips, are expected to be a major factor in the election.
However, Governor Sang has dismissed the allegations of corruption and mismanagement of resources, saying that his critics are being sponsored by land cartels.
